Missing millions – Co-op cash bonanza up for grabs

The company's community fund gives thousands of pounds to organisations as a result of Co-op members buying their own brand products and services.

But the co-op revealed that it needs groups to come forward to benefit from its community fund, which gives thousands of pounds to local organisations as a result of Co-op members buying own brand products and services.

The average last pay out for groups in the area was £2,400 after the scheme ran for just six months.

This included funds for organisations including the Friends of Park Road in Timperley, the Larkhill Centre Community Association, the Willows Primary School Parent Teacher Association, and the Friends of Templemoor.

This latest round will run for 11 months from November to October 2018, meaning the potential to receive double the money, and applications can be made at https://causes.coop.co.uk

The Co-op is looking for good causes to apply to receive the funding, with the closure date for applications fast approaching on August 8.

When a Co-op member buys own-brand products from food stores or a funeral plan or funeral from Funeralcare they earn a five per cent reward for themselves with a further one per cent going to local good causes.

Group director for community and campaigns at the Co-op, Rufus Olins, said: “The growing number of Co-op members shopping in Sale and Timperley is helping to create thousands of pounds back in to causes which are providing a much needed benefit to the local community.

"In April we paid out £9 million to over 4,000 good causes thanks to our 4.5 million members shopping with us, and we need new causes to come forward to ensure that we can continue to support such a diverse range of groups.

“This is a chance for communities to have a real say and influence on what matters in their local area. Even if you’re not directly involved in a charity or good cause, most people know of a group that would benefit from this significant level of funding.”